Following his Saturday night fall at an Atlanta-area hotel and subsequent marijuana citation, Ole Miss defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche released a statement through the Rebels’ athletics department apologizing for his actions.
The statement in full:
“I want to apologize to Rebel Nation, my teammates and my coaches for my actions last weekend. I made a mistake and put myself in an environment that does not reflect who I am as a person. Contrary to a report by FOX Sports, I did not use synthetic drugs. I realize the dangers of drugs and alcohol and regret the lapse in judgment.
“This does not reflect the core values that my mother and father instilled in our family. I am a very spiritual person, and drugs have no place in my belief system. As I move forward, I have learned a valuable lesson about the ramifications of a bad decision. I have worked very hard to have this platform, and I want to use it in the right way and be a role model for young players. I am sorry for putting Coach (Hugh) Freeze in this position and will accept whatever consequences are necessary, but my hope is to finish this year’s journey with my brothers.”
Rebels head coach Hugh Freeze has yet to decide Nkemdiche’s status for the Jan. 1 Sugar Bowl, stating he has to meet with his star defender first.
“Any time these things happen with young men, there’s no cut-and-dry answer, particularly when you don’t know all the facts and issues,” Freeze said. “I haven’t even had a chance yet to visit with him. Certainly owe him that before we talk about details.
“It certainly was a poor decision to be in the environment he was in. Again, without knowing the details, it’s hard to say exactly all the issues that are involved.”
After fielding reports of a man falling from a 15-foot wall -- which, obviously, turned out to be Nkemdiche -- Atlanta police discovered “approximately” seven rolled marijuana cigarettes in Nkemdiche’s hotel room.
Nkemdiche recorded 29 tackles, seven TFLs and three sacks this season.